The return of Echo Park Lake

A bee hovers over a water lily at Echo Park Lake after a two-year, $45-million makeover. Before it was refilled and restocked with plants, the neighborhood landmark was completely drained and cleaned.

A bee hovers over a water lily at Echo Park Lake after a two-year, $45-million makeover. Before it was refilled and restocked with plants, the neighborhood landmark was completely drained and cleaned. (Mark Boster / Los Angeles Times)

A preview of Echo Park Lake after its two-year, $45-million makeover. During the renovation, the lake was drained and cleaned, and several acres of wetlands were added. Officials are planning to reopen the neighborhood landmark on June 15. Video